The Best Swiss Fondue: A Cheese Lover's Guide

Fondue is a Swiss dish typically consisting of melted cheese and wine served in a communal pot. It is eaten by dipping bread, vegetables, or other snacks into the cheese using long-stemmed forks. Fondue was promoted as a Swiss national dish by the Swiss Cheese Union in the 1930s and was popularized in North America in the 1960s. The earliest known recipe for the modern form of cheese fondue comes from a 1699 book published in Zurich, under the name Käss mit Wein zu kochen ('to cook cheese with wine'). Fondue can be found in homes and restaurants throughout Switzerland, though it is most common in traditional or rural areas in both French and German-speaking regions. Here are some of the best places to find fondue in Switzerland: Chäsalp and Frau Gerolds Garten in Zurich, Le Gruyerien and Les Armures in Geneva, or Restaurant Essort and Kloetzlikeller in Bern.

Fondue in Swiss homes

Fondue is a Swiss dish typically consisting of melted cheese and wine served in a communal pot (caquelon or fondue pot) and eaten by dipping bread, vegetables, or other snacks. It is considered a winter meal and is enjoyed in homes and at restaurants throughout Switzerland, though it is most common in traditional or rural areas.

The history of fondue can be traced back to 18th-century Switzerland, where it originated as a means for farm families to stretch their limited resources during the winter months. The first written recipes for fondue appeared in 18th-century cookbooks published in France and Belgium, but they called for Gruyère, a Swiss cheese. In the 1930s, the Swiss Cheese Union popularized fondue as a Swiss national dish to increase cheese consumption in the country.

In Swiss homes, fondue is often made with a blend of cheeses, wine, and seasoning. The most common combination is Gruyère and Emmental, but other popular variations include Gruyère with Vacherin Fribourgeois ("moitiè-moitiè" or "half-half"), Gruyère with Appenzeller, or Gruyère and Raclette. The caquelon (fondue pot) is traditionally rubbed with a cut garlic clove, and additional ingredients such as garlic, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, and bacon are often added to the cheese mixture.

To prepare fondue, the cheese, cornstarch, and lemon juice are combined and added to the pot. The mixture is cooked over moderate heat until the cheeses begin to melt, and then the heat is reduced to low. A splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) is often added for a kick, along with seasonings such as nutmeg and pepper. The fondue is served immediately, with a variety of accompaniments such as cubed bread, boiled baby potatoes, cornichons, and pickled onions.

Fondue in Zurich

Fondue is a beloved Swiss tradition and a fun way to spend a cold evening with friends and family. In Zurich, the Swiss cheese dish can be enjoyed in many different ways, from the traditional cosy chalet to a streetcar or boat.

Where to Find Fondue in Zurich

Bernadette Gondola Fondue

Near the Zurich Operahaus, you can eat fondue in little gondola cars overlooking the Weihnachtsdorf Christmas market. They have three cheese options: classic Moitié Moitié, “Glacier” fondue, and champagne truffle.

Frau Gerold's Garten

From October to March, this informal venue offers fondue and raclette in their Winterstube or indoor Winterstübli. You don't need a reservation for outdoor seating. Just order at the counter and find a table under the fairy lights.

Zürich Fondue Tram

As you ride around Zurich, you’ll enjoy a three-course menu including a cheese fondue, a starter, and dessert. They offer an alternative vegan menu with a pasta dish for the main.

Uetliberg “Maiensäss” Fondue Chalet

Take a short train ride from the Zurich main station to the Uetliberg mountain, where you’ll find a beautiful viewpoint over the city and lake. From October to March, you can enjoy fondue at their “Maiensäss” fondue chalet, in the rustic style of a traditional chalet from the Engadin region.

Fondue Alp Grossmünster Zürich

This cute wooden chalet appears during the Christmas season next to the Grossmünster cathedral in the Zurich old town. The interior is super cosy and really feels like you are in the Swiss Alps. It’s a popular spot, particularly for groups, so reserve early to get your desired date.

Chäsalp & Fonduekino

This restaurant is a renovated farm building on the hill east of Zurich city. In addition to the classic Moitié-Moitié and their house blend, they offer a variety of interesting fondue cheese flavours, including chilli, buffalo mozzarella, morel mushroom, tomato sauce, and herb. They also serve Raclette, Alpine cheese macaroni in various flavours, starter salads, and dessert.

Lake Zurich Fondue Cruise

Ride a boat around Lake Zurich while eating fondue or raclette with friends. Most tables are inside, but a few outdoor tables are available. This is a popular choice for work and family parties.

Fondue in Geneva

Fondue is a Swiss dish that typically consists of melted cheese and wine served in a communal pot. It is eaten by dipping bread, vegetables, or other snacks into the cheese using long-stemmed forks. Fondue has its roots in the rural parts of Switzerland and was promoted as the Swiss national dish in the 1930s. Here are some great spots to try fondue in Geneva:

Le Gruyèrien

Le Gruyèrien is a chalet-style establishment with a warm and homey atmosphere and friendly staff. Their specialties include the traditional moitié-moitié (half vacherin, half Gruyère cheese), fondue à la Tomate served with potatoes instead of the usual bread, fondue aux bolets with porcini mushrooms, and fondue chèvre made with 100% goat cheese. They are known for their exceptional quality, competitive prices, and speedy service. It is located at Rue de Chêne-Bougeries 2 and is open Tuesday to Saturday from 12 pm – 2 pm & 6:30 pm – 12 am. Booking ahead is highly recommended.

Les Armures

Les Armures is located in a 13th-century building with lots of charm and history. The dining rooms have low-beamed ceilings and exposed brickwork. Their fondue choices include variations with tomatoes, herbs, wild mushrooms, and bacon. A tasty raclette is also on the menu, as well as dried meat platters and fresh perch from Lake Geneva. Les Armures is one of the Geneva restaurants that serve fondue in Geneva's old town year-round. Their fondue prices start at 26 Swiss francs. The address is Rue du Soleil-Levant, 1204, and their website is hotel-les-armures.ch.

Café Bon-Vin

Café Bon-Vin is located in a picturesque setting on the lake in Geneva's Eaux-Vives neighborhood. It has a warm and friendly bistro atmosphere that welcomes guests from around the world. Their fondue menu includes traditional and creative options, with the champagne fondue being especially popular. Other variants include half and half, mushroom, herb, goat cheese, and tomatoes. Along with fondue, the menu features authentic Swiss cuisine, including country sausages with cabbage, grilled entrecôte, and sliced ​​Zurich veal with rösti. The wine list at Café Bon-Vin is extensive and features fine French wines. The address is Rue François-Versonnex 17, Geneva, and the opening hours are Monday to Friday from 11:30 am – 3:00 pm & 6:30 pm – 11:30 pm, and Saturday & Sunday from 6:30 pm – 11:30 pm. The website is cafebonvin.ch.

Café du Soleil

Conveniently located by car to the United Nations, Café du Soleil is over 400 years old and is situated in a historic building across from the Petit-Saconnex’s Church. It is a favorite for locals and welcomes guests from around the world. The interior decor is homey, and the outdoor terrace is reminiscent of a Provençal village. The fondue at Café du Soleil is made with authentic cheese from La Roche, a village near Gruyères. Other dishes for cheese lovers on the menu include a plate of Gruyères, pan-fried cheese served with a salad, and Malakoff (cheese delicatessen). The address is Place du Petit-Saconnex 6, Geneva, and the website is www.cafedusoleil.ch/en/.

Edelweiss Hotel

For a unique fondue experience, the Edelweiss Hotel features traditional live music by a folk band playing Swiss songs and the famous yodel. You can also reserve a table in Le Chalet, an authentic chalet from the Valais region that was rebuilt in Geneva. The Edelweiss has an extensive and creative fondue menu, including the Fondue du Chef, à l’ail et moutarde (the chef's cheese fondue made with mustard and garlic), and the Fondue moitié-moitié affinée de la fromagerie de Marsens (made with Gruyère cheese aged for 2 years and Vacherin Fribourgeois aged for 5 months). The chef at Edelweiss has even created a vegan fondue made with cashew nuts. All fondues are served with bread, and fondue sans alcohol is available upon request. The address is Place de la Navigation 2, 1201, Geneva, and the opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm – 11 pm. The website is hoteledelweissgeneva.com/en/edelweiss.

Fondue in Bern

Fondue is a Swiss dish consisting of melted cheese and wine, served in a communal pot and eaten by dipping bread, vegetables, or other snacks. It is said to have originated in 18th-century Switzerland as a way for farm families to stretch their limited resources during the winter months. Today, it is considered Switzerland's national dish and is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.

If you're looking to indulge in this delicious Swiss delicacy in Bern, the capital city, you're in luck! Here are some of the best places to enjoy fondue:

Restaurant Rosengarten: This restaurant offers a great cheese fondue experience, along with hot chocolate, making it an ideal spot to warm up during the cold winter months.

Gourmanderie Moléson: With excellent fondue and a variety of vegan options, this restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a hearty meal.

Lötschberg: This restaurant offers a unique pairing of fondue with great wine, creating a delightful sensory journey.

Marzilibrücke: For a truly Swiss experience, try the fondue at Marzilibrücke, where you can enjoy your meal in a small cabin outdoors.

Kloetzlikeller: Known for its good food and great service, Kloetzlikeller is another excellent choice for fondue in Bern. Their wild menu during the winter interprets the season's offerings in inspiring ways.

In addition to these restaurants, Bern has a plethora of eateries offering traditional Swiss fondue, each with its own unique ambiance and charm. So, whether you're a tourist or a local, be sure to indulge in this delicious Swiss delicacy and experience a true taste of Switzerland!

Fondue in the Swiss Alps

There's no better way to immerse yourself in Swiss culture than by indulging in their national dish, fondue, high up in the Swiss Alps. Fondue is a Swiss dish consisting of melted cheese and wine served in a communal pot, known as a "caquelon" or "fondue pot", over a portable stove heated by a candle or spirit lamp. It is eaten by dipping bread, vegetables, or other snacks into the cheese using long-stemmed forks. Fondue is not just a dish but a social experience, bringing people together around the table. And what better setting to enjoy this delicious tradition than in the breathtaking Swiss Alps?

History of Fondue

Fondue, derived from the French word "fondre", meaning "to melt", has its origins in 18th-century Switzerland. It was a simple yet ingenious way for farm families to stretch their limited resources during the long winter months. With some leftover cheese, stale bread, and a dash of wine, the family could gather around the hearth for a hearty and comforting meal. The first written recipes for fondue appeared in 18th-century cookbooks published in France and Belgium, featuring Gruyère, a Swiss cheese. In the 1930s, the Swiss Cheese Union popularized fondue as the Swiss national dish, and it has since become a symbol of Swiss unity and national identity.

Where to Find Fondue in the Swiss Alps

While fondue can be found in homes and restaurants throughout Switzerland, there's something special about enjoying it in the majestic setting of the Swiss Alps. Chäsalp and Frau Gerolds Garten in Zurich, Le Gruyerien and Les Armures in Geneva, or Restaurant Essort and Kloetzlikeller in Bern offer authentic fondue experiences. But for the ultimate Swiss experience, head to the Alps. After a day of hiking, skiing, or sledging, warm up with a rich and creamy fondue at a cosy mountain restaurant.

Fondue Traditions and Customs

When enjoying fondue in the Swiss Alps, there are a few traditions and customs to keep in mind. Fondue is traditionally considered a winter meal, though some locals enjoy it year-round. It is typically served in an earthenware pot, favoured for its even heating and heat retention. The bread, or other dipping items, should be skewered with a fork and swirled in the pot before being eaten. Be careful not to lose your bread in the pot, as this may result in a playful penalty, such as buying a round of drinks or singing a song. The crust that forms at the bottom of the pot, known as "la religieuse", is considered a delicacy and is chipped away and savoured at the end of the meal.

Fondue Variations

While the classic Swiss fondue consists of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, there are many variations to discover in the Swiss Alps. In eastern Switzerland, you may find Gruyère mixed with aromatic Appenzeller. In Valais, a blend of Gruyère and Raclette is common, while Bern is known for its Emmentaler fondue. Fondue is often seasoned with garlic, mountain herbs, paprika, cayenne, nutmeg, mustard, or even tomato coulis. Accompaniments can include potatoes, cornichons, pickled pearl onions, or sliced apples and pears. The traditional beverage pairing is white wine, though black tea and kirsch (cherry brandy) are also popular choices.

Frequently asked questions